It is estimated that about 100,000 children and young people are living with domestic abuse in Scotland.

The campaign shows how devastating psychological abuse can be

Daniela Nardini

The television advert highlighted the effects of psychological abuse by showing a woman going about her daily routine being constantly ground down by her partner's behaviour.

Nardini said the issue of respect was at the heart of the awareness drive.

"We can all understand what it must be like to live in constant fear or feeling controlled by others," she said.

"We all deserve healthy, positive relationships, where we can share values, be our own people in relationships built on foundations of trust, support and love.

Emotional abuse

"The advertising campaign shows just how devastating psychological abuse can be and I don't think anyone should ever experience this.

"It's sad to know that women are suffering in this way but I'm really encouraged that through these adverts, people are coming forward for support and advice. I really hope they continue to contact the helpline."

The Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline co-ordinator Liz Kelly said more than half of the calls received over the six-week period mentioned the television and radio campaign.

"A vast amount of the callers mentioned the advert, as for many, it was the first time they realised that the abuse they were experiencing at home, was in fact domestic abuse," she said.

"Those experiencing physical violence often recognise this as domestic abuse, but when it is psychological abuse, many do not identify what is happening to them and so don't know or feel they can ask for help.

"It's more difficult because there are no bruises or injuries on show. "

The statistics were published a day before Valentine's Day as a reminder that while many couples celebrate loving relationships others suffer domestic abuse.